Robert L. Thurmond Sr.

Robert Lee Thurmond Sr., affectionately known as “Pops,” “Bob,” and “Bird leg,” passed away at the age of 83 and went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on October 19, 2025.

Born on August 31, 1942, in Durant, Mississippi, Robert devoted his life to his family and his work. On September 28, 1963, he married the love of his life, Everlena Thurmond. Together, they raised three children: Robert (Lavon) Thurmond Jr., Mark Anthony Thurmond, and Rachael (Rupert) Valentine.

Robert worked for 33 years at Kelly Springfield Tires before retiring. He also fulfilled his lifelong dream of starting a real estate business, owning several rental properties in Freeport, Illinois.

He enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially tending to his garden on the west side of town. Robert loved hunting, fishing, riding his motorcycle and electric bicycle, and watching Western movies. As a grandfather, he was playful and devoted, often sharing laughs with his grandchildren while watching the Chicago Bears lose.

Family was always the center of Robert’s life. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Everlena; his children, Robert Jr. (Lavon) Thurmond, Mark Anthony Thurmond, and Rachael (Rupert) Valentine; five grandchildren—Lisa (Lucius) Brown, LaToya Warden, Shania, Malachi, and Lorenzo Valentine; and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Madlock-Pempilton, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents: Maude Lee Thurmond, Van Thurmond Sr. (5) brothers: Van Thurmond Jr., James Earl Matlock, Ira Thurmond Sr., Willie Thurmond and Steven Thurmond (5) Sisters: Eva Mae Thurmond-Young, Laure Thurmond-McClellan, Georgia Bell Thurmond- Marby, Lula Thurmond- Pegee Howard & Ella Mae Thurmond-Patterson.

Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday November 1, 2025 at Faith Center Freeport, 203 W Pleasant St, Freeport, IL 61032. A visitation will be held from. 9:00-10:30 A.M. at Burke Tubbs Funeral Home. There will be no viewing at church. Burial will be in Grandview Cemetery.